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Understanding Michigan Probate and Trust Administration

When a loved one dies, property and assets must go through a probate process if the property is owned in only that person’s name. A family without a trust, joint owners, or beneficiaries may need to distribute estate assets under the watch of the probate court to ensure all actions are carried out according to the terms of the will.

What is the Probate Process in Michigan?

The term probate refers to the process of proving the validity of a will. Today, it refers to the entire legal process of settling an estate after a person passes away. In most cases, the appointed representative—usually a family member—files the probate case with the court. Their task will be to sort through all the financial business the decedent left behind with the court’s help.

The probate process distributes assets and property after your death to heirs and/or devisees of the will. Probate will be required for any assets you own in your name or made payable to your estate.

Ensuring that your assets’ ownership aligns with your estate planning goals is vital to avoid probate. If assets are owned in the name of your trust, an annuity, or a retirement account with a right of survivorship or joint tenants, they will bypass the Michigan probate process.

Avoid Probate Court in Michigan with Proper Planning

Probate court can be a lengthy, expensive, and public process. It’s not uncommon for clients to want to keep their financial affairs and family matters private after they die. With Malicoat Law’s experience in probate and trust administration, you can develop a proper estate plan and avoid probate.

Generally, you can avoid most probate matters and will contests through proper planning with an experienced probate lawyer in Michigan. Our lawyers will develop a plan for your family’s future today while building a lasting relationship with you for the years and changes to come. Sometimes probate can’t be avoided, such as when a loved one dies without leaving a will. When the time comes, we guide families through the process and work to make the estate administration process as smooth as possible.

Your Probate Attorney in Michigan

Our law office will provide sound legal advice to guide you or a loved one through the Michigan probate process. In the event of a loved one’s death, our probate administration attorneys will facilitate the transition of assets quickly and efficiently.

Malicoat Law can help you and your loved ones understand estate planning, elder law, business planning, probate, and VA planning, as well as estate and trust administration. Our law firm welcomes the opportunity to consult with new clients in cities such as Bay City, Auburn, Freeland, Saginaw, Mount Pleasant, Tawas City, East Tawas, Hale, or Oscoda. Learn more about how we can help meet your probate, estate, and trust administration needs.

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